Apple Bread

This Apple Bread is a delightful treat, perfect for any occasion – whether it’s breakfast, dessert, or a cozy snack. The combination of fresh apples and Greek yogurt creates an incredibly moist quick bread that everyone will adore. With a crunchy crumble topping, this recipe stands out as a delicious way to enjoy the comforting flavors of apple and cinnamon.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Moist Texture: Thanks to Greek yogurt, this apple bread remains tender and moist throughout.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps and simple ingredients, this recipe is perfect for both beginners and seasoned bakers.
• Versatile Enjoyment: Ideal for breakfast, a midday snack, or dessert – you can enjoy it at any time of the day!
• Nutritious Ingredients: Made with white whole wheat flour and fresh apples, this bread offers a healthier option without sacrificing flavor.
• Delicious Crumble Topping: The crunchy topping adds a wonderful texture to every bite, making it even more irresistible.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools to ensure a smooth experience. Having the right equipment makes all the difference in baking success.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Whisk
• Rubber spatula
• Loaf pan
• Oven mitts

Why These Tools Matter

• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients thoroughly without mess.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are crucial for consistent results in baking.
• Rubber spatula: Perfect for scraping down bowls and folding in ingredients without damaging them.

Ingredients

This Apple Bread is delicious for breakfast or even dessert! Greek yogurt in the batter keeps this apple quick bread incredibly moist, and you will love the crumble topping.

For the Bread:

• 1 cup peeled and chopped granny smith apple (or other baking apple)
• 2 tablespoons packed light brown sugar
• 2 teaspoons cinnamon
• 2 cups white whole wheat flour
• 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¾ cup plain Greek yogurt
• ½ cup unsweetened applesauce
• ⅓ cup honey
• 2 eggs
• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)

For the Crumble Topping:

• 1/3 cup old-fashioned oats
• 2 tablespoons white whole wheat flour
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 2 tablespoons cold unsalted butter (cut into cubes)
• 1/3 cup walnuts (chopped)

How to Make Apple Bread

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your bread bakes evenly.

Step 2: Prepare the Batter

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped apples with light brown sugar and cinnamon. Set aside.
2. In another bowl, whisk together white whole wheat flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, mix Greek yogurt, unsweetened applesauce, honey, eggs, vanilla extract, and melted butter until well combined.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture until just combined. Gently fold in the apple mixture.

Step 3: Make the Crumble Topping

1. In a small bowl, combine oats, white whole wheat flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and cold butter cubes.
2. Use your fingers or a pastry cutter to mix until crumbly.

Step 4: Bake

1. Pour the batter into a greased loaf pan.
2. Sprinkle the crumble topping evenly over the batter.
3. Bake in preheated oven for about 55 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 5: Cool and Serve

Allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Slice once cooled and enjoy your delicious homemade Apple Bread!

How to Serve Apple Bread

Apple Bread is a versatile treat that can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you prefer it fresh out of the oven or toasted with toppings, there are plenty of delightful serving suggestions to enhance your experience.

For Breakfast

• Toast with Butter: Spread a pat of butter on a warm slice for a rich, comforting start to your day.
• With Greek Yogurt: Serve a piece alongside a dollop of Greek yogurt for added creaminess and protein.
• Fruit Compote: Top with a homemade fruit compote for a sweet, fruity addition that pairs wonderfully with apple flavors.

As a Snack

• Nut Butter Spread: Slather almond or peanut butter on a slice for a satisfying snack packed with energy.
• Cheese Pairing: Enjoy with sharp cheddar cheese for an interesting contrast of flavors and textures.

For Dessert

• With Ice Cream: Serve warm slices topped with vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert that’s hard to resist.
• Drizzled with Honey: A light drizzle of honey brings out the sweetness and enhances the flavors beautifully.

How to Perfect Apple Bread

Creating the perfect Apple Bread is all about attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your bread turns out moist and flavorful every time.

• Use Fresh Apples: Choose firm, tart apples like Granny Smith for the best flavor and texture.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix your batter just until combined to keep the bread tender and avoid toughness.
• Check Oven Temperature: Ensure your oven is properly preheated; an incorrect temperature can affect baking time and texture.
• Add Nuts or Raisins: Incorporate chopped walnuts or raisins into the batter for extra flavor and crunch.
• Let it Cool Completely: Allow the bread to cool in the pan before transferring it to avoid sogginess.

Best Side Dishes for Apple Bread

Apple Bread pairs well with various side dishes that complement its sweetness. Here are some excellent options to consider:

1. Greek Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with fresh fruits and granola for a refreshing side that balances sweetness.
2. Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and freshness that contrasts nicely with the dense bread.
3. Cottage Cheese Bowl: Serve cottage cheese topped with sliced peaches or berries for a protein-rich, creamy side.
4. Oatmeal: A warm bowl of oatmeal provides hearty satisfaction that works well alongside sweet breads.
5. Chia Seed Pudding: This healthy option offers a unique texture that complements apple bread perfectly.
6. Nutty Granola Bars: Homemade granola bars add crunch and make a great portable snack alongside slices of apple bread.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking Apple Bread can be a delightful experience, but some common mistakes can dampen your results. Here are a few to watch out for:

• Ignoring ingredient temperatures – Using cold ingredients can affect the texture. Ensure your eggs and yogurt are at room temperature for best results.
• Overmixing the batter – This can lead to dense bread. Mix just until the dry ingredients are incorporated to keep it light and airy.
• Skipping the crumble topping – The topping adds flavor and texture. Don’t forget this step for a delicious finish!
• Measuring flour incorrectly – Too much flour can make your bread dry. Use the spoon-and-level method to measure accurately.
• Not checking for doneness – Relying solely on cooking time can be misleading. Use a toothpick inserted in the center; it should come out clean when ready.

Storage and Reheating

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
• Apple Bread can last up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Apple Bread

• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer bag.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Reheating Apple Bread

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 10-15 minutes for best results.
• Microwave – Heat individual slices on medium power for about 20-30 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop – Place a slice in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm for about 2-3 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes this Apple Bread moist?

The Greek yogurt and unsweetened applesauce contribute moisture and tenderness, making each slice deliciously soft.

Can I use other types of apples?

Yes! While Granny Smith is great for baking, you can use any firm apple variety like Honeycrisp or Fuji for sweetness.

How do I customize my Apple Bread recipe?

You can add nuts, dried fruits, or spices like nutmeg for added flavor. Experiment with different mix-ins!

Is Apple Bread suitable for breakfast?

Absolutely! This Apple Bread is perfect as a breakfast option or a snack throughout the day.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute the white whole wheat flour with a gluten-free baking blend that measures cup-for-cup.

Conclusion

This Apple Bread is not only perfect for breakfast but also makes a delightful dessert. With its moist texture and flavorful crumble topping, it’s sure to please everyone. Feel free to customize it with nuts or spices to suit your taste!

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